Rangers captain James Tavernier has insisted he was 'always convinced' Amad Diallo would go on to become one of Manchester United's most important players.

Amad has arguably been United's player of the season so far, scoring nine goals and registering seven assists in all competitions so far this term.

The 22-year-old will likely take his place in the starting XI on Thursday evening when United welcome Scottish side Rangers to Old Trafford, meaning the Ivorian international will come up against some familiar faces.

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Amad spent the second half of the 2021/22 campaign on loan with the Glasgow side but only scored three times in 16 appearances as he struggled to make a major impact at Ibrox.

However, the following season saw him blossom in a loan spell with Sunderland that saw him named the PFA Championship Fans' Player of the Year and he has since gone from strength to strength after returning to United.

And Tavernier, who could well be tasked with stopping Amad at Old Trafford, has admitted he didn't have any doubt over his former team-mate's abilities.

"I was always convinced," Tavernier said during Wednesday night's pre-match press conference at Old Trafford. "He showed really good signs at Rangers, then he had a really bright spell at Sunderland on loan and he’s continued that at Man United and he’s showcasing his talent.

"He’ll be a dangerman that we’ll have to be aware of tomorrow because he’s really in form. I’m looking forward to playing against him."

United head into the clash with Rangers just one point ahead of Philippe Clement's side. Both sides are currently in the top eight of the Europa League table and victory for either side will put them in a strong position to move directly through to the Last 16.